By Neo Kolane
The Lesotho Teachers’ Trade Union (LTTU) has decided to withdraw from the Coalition of Lesotho Public Employees (COLEPE) with immediate effect.
In a February 13, 2024 letter to COLEPE, LTTU general secretary ‘Mamoholoane Folene and president Mafokane Ramakhula said the withdrawal comes after consideration and deliberations within its national council.
The letter noted that recent developments have highlighted significant tensions within COLEPE, particularly concerning strategy, tactics and the systematic exclusion of LTTU from meaningful engagements.
“Despite our unwavering commitment to collaborative efforts, it has become increasingly evident that the relationship within this arrangement has veered away from collective decision-making and grassroots involvement.
“As a trade union driven by a definitive mandate from our leadership and membership, we prioritise representing the interests of our members above all,” it said.
“Therefore, with deep regret yet unwavering conviction, we hereby officially withdraw our participation in COLEPE. This decision is not taken lightly but is deemed necessary to uphold the values and principles that guide our organisation’s actions,” the letter added.